The Scottish Enlightenment

This authoritative anthology covers the many contributions to science, philosophy and economics made by the great minds of 18th century Scotland.

Through the eighteenth and into the nineteenth centuries, Scotland saw an explosion of intellectual activity in the realms of philosophy, law, economics, politics, linguistics and the physical sciences. Great thinkers such as Adam Smith, David Hume, Adam Ferguson, Thomas Reid, James Hutton, and many others formulated many of the ideas that would become foundational to modernity.


This anthology collects some of the most significant works by Scottish Enlightenment thinkers as well as lesser-known writings that have not been reprinted for centuries. Arranged thematically, it includes sections on Human Nature, Ethics, Aesthetics, Religion, Economics, Social Theory and Politics, Law, Historiography, Language and Science. Scottish philosopher and intellectual historian Alexander Broadie sheds light on the significance of these writings through his masterful introduction as well as commentary throughout.

"A major contribution to our literature and intellectual resources and I do not think it could be better done . . . For many people this book will become a companion for years or even a lifetime." —Scotsman, UK